I’m delighted to advise that many of the world’s travel and tourism leaders have committed to join our inaugural PATA CEO Challenge: Confronting Climate Change, and more are signing up each day.

We are excited that people of the calibre of Mr Edwin Fuller, President & Managing Director, Marriott Hotels and Resorts; Mr Tony Tyler, CEO, Cathay Pacific; Mr George Hickton, CEO, Tourism New Zealand and Mr Tony Wheeler, Founder, Lonely Planet will be at the historic event in Bangkok on April 29 and 30.

All of these leaders – and many more – are joining the PATA CEO Challenge to share initiatives and inspire all of us to take action to counter the impacts of climate change.

Whether you’re in hospitality, aviation, destination marketing, distribution or any other part of travel and tourism, this is your opportunity to become part of the climate change solution.

Let me assure you, this will not be another talkfest. As you can see from the programme, you will be able to interact with fellow decision-makers, share best practice and perhaps even collaborate on a collective response.

If you’re serious about travel and tourism, this is an event you cannot afford to miss. As you know, it’s essential we show the world that travel and tourism is playing its part in the challenge to protect our planet.

So act now. Register online today at www.ceochallenge.PATA.org. If you register before February 15, you’ll save at least US$200. If you’re a PATA member, you’ll save US$500.

Although several months have passed since our Distributor meeting I would still like to thank you on behalf of STERIS Corporation, European division, for all the help and assistance as well as hospitality you have extended before, during and following our STERIS 2007 Distributor Conference held at the Aldemar Knossos Royal Village in Hersonissos, October 21st to October 25th.

The accommodation, service and conference facilities you arranged at theAldemar Knossos Royal Village were all outstanding.

Our Conference was a tremendous success in every way due to your efforts and valuable assistance.

I hope the owner of your company knows how wonderful you are. You are very resourceful and your follow up is excellent. This is what earns you my trust. Your traits are rare. I have 25 employees so I know.